7 Tips for Finding the Best Nursing Care for Your Alzheimer’s Patient

More than 5.7 people in the United States alone are living with Alzheimer’s. It is estimated that someone new is diagnosed with this condition every 65 seconds.

As it is such a widespread condition, there are now specialty treatment and care options for individuals and families dealing with the disease.

While family members often try to care for their loved ones at first or hire someone for in-home care, as the disease progresses, it often becomes impossible.

Their loved one may require constant care, or be aggressive, incontinent or wander.

When this happens, it isn’t unusual for family members to begin to search for other options. When it is time for nursing care for your loved one who has Alzheimer’s, finding the right option is paramount.

Seven tips to help make this decision easier can be found here.

1. Consider the Types of Nursing Care Available

There are several options when it comes to nursing care for an Alzheimer’s patient. Some of the most popular options are found here.

Continuing Care Retirement Communities

These are often in the form of an apartment, home or room within a retirement community where those with Alzheimer’s can receive care and live.

Some places offer options for those who can still care for themselves, while others provide help for patients who need 24/7 care. An advantage is that individuals can move from one level of care to another if needed.

Assisted Living Facilities

This option is ideal for Alzheimer’s patients who only need help with some tasks of daily living.

There are some facilities that even have special units for those with Alzheimer’s. In addition to covering the cost for the room, you will also have to pay for any additional care your loved one requires.

Group Homes

This is where several people who are unable to care for themselves live with two or more staff members.

As a result, there is always one staff member available. In some areas, these homes aren’t regularly inspected, so be careful. If this is the option you choose, be sure the staff is trained on how to provide proper care.

Nursing Homes

If you need nursing care for someone who is unable to care for themselves – at all – then a nursing home may be the right option.

In addition to having staff members who are trained to care for Alzheimer’s patients, these facilities have additional safeguards in place, such as door alarms for Alzheimer patients, for those who wander.

A nursing home can provide additional peace of mind that your loved one is safe and well-cared for.

2. Gather Information

Before choosing nursing care for your loved one, be sure to gather all the information to make an educated decision.

To begin this process, speak with a social worker, your loved one’s doctor and family members. You can also check resources, such as Nursing Home Compare offered by Medicare, or the Joint Commission’s Quality Check.

It is also a good idea to create a list of questions to ask the staff at the facility and set up a time for an in-person visit.

3. Find Locations Nearby

If you are like most people, you will want to be able to visit your loved one regularly. As a result, it is a good idea to try and find the right type of facility nearby.

Keep in mind, when trying to find a good location, be sure to consider the surroundings and what your loved one enjoys.

If they love being outside in a garden, find a facility with this type of space. Consider this carefully to ensure your loved one will be comfortable in the facility you choose.

4. Visit the Locations being Considered

Take some time to visit the location you are considering several times a day. Make sure to visit during different times of the day, as well.

During each of your visits, take along a checklist. This checklist can include things such as:

Does the staff seem attentive and properly care for residents?

Does the staff seem friendly?

Is the facility comfortable?

How do the residents look?

Are mealtimes comfortable?

Is there a bad or strange odor?

5. Ask About Activities

Just because your loved one has Alzheimer’s, it doesn’t mean they want to sit in their room and waste away.

As a result, it is a good idea to ask about what type of activities are planned for residents.

Many locations offer arts and crafts, music, fitness and even planned outings. Make sure your loved one will have plenty of things to do.